Akshay Nayak explores this unique this snug spa and resort in Bhopal at the edge of a green forest – the Van Vihar National Park
Popularly recognised as the ‘City of lakes’, the capital of city of Madhya Pradesh – Bhopal has earned several other accolades not just for being one of the cleanest cities in the country, but also one of the greenest ones, for it is home to innumerable flora and fauna dwelling in the serene confines of the city’s Van Vihar National Park. Lining this lush park, one of the oldest heritage hoteliers of the city – Jehan Group of Hotels thoughtfully nestled the Jehan Numa Retreat there to transfer guests into the realms of serenity right in the midst of nature.
With a view of Bhojtal – formerly Upper Lake, the retreat property is strategically located away from the busy city roads and is just a 25-minute drive from Raja Bhoj International Airport. On entering the 12-acre property, Green House Bistro – the retreat’s cafe welcomes the guests first, followed by the reception area.
Donning a greenhouse setting, the café is laced with antiques, plants and vegetables. Its intriguing farm to table concept sees a lot of non-resident guests pouring in too. Following the slow food movement philosophy, Green House Bistro serves comfort food, infused with global herbs and spices, seasonal, fresh, and everything organic grown right next to your table.
Heritage touches
Moving into and past the lobby, Jehan Numa Retreat piques one’s interest to note about the scores of plantations within the property that also covers 70 per cent of the resort’s kitchen supply needs annually. With 28 cottages scattered in clusters of five and four rooms respectively, the suites open to a backyard overlooking the perennially green plantations. To give the interiors a rich heritage look, Jehan Numa Retreat used a lot of local artistry with hand crafted colonial-style furnishings, local design touches, and best-in-class in-room amenities and services, making it an ideal abode away from home.
What’s a retreat without the calming massage sessions in tranquillity? The retreat property offers spa rooms with a view of either the green fields or the expansive swimming pool. Having kick-started with Ayurvedic massages, the retreat also offers other international massages and treatments as desired by the guests. With the silence of the backyard broken by chirping birds that pay a visit to the property from Van Vihar; the sunset with orangish-pink skies and a view of the swaying Eucalyptus trees fencing the property, the retreat’s setting is idyllic.
Jehan Numa Retreat not only brings nature closer to your lavish relaxing suites but also pulls you out of the room to relish your supper under the skies, while basking in the sunlight by the day and in the chilly nights with gentle breezes.
The treats freshly prepared at Under The Jamun Tree – the retreat’s all-day restaurant, take care of tickling the tastebuds with subtle yet prominent flavours. The crispy Kurkure Bhindi, smooth Aloo Bharta and the luscious velvety Paalak Saag are just brilliant and come in large portions too. The mild flavours sparingly sensed with each bite of the food is deeply rooted in the history of Bhopal, for the city since its inception was moulded by rulers and residents with Afghani influences.
While there’s much of awe and everything fascinating within the resort itself to relish, a little away from the property is the city’s popular tribal and state museums. The other attractions easily accessible from the resort include The World Heritage Sites – Bhimbetka rock shelters and Sanchi.
